A classic fairytale will be brought to life in Beccles this Christmas as a traditional festive pantomime returns to the town.

Spark Live Pantomimes will be appearing at the public hall for the fourth year running, to present Sleeping Beauty during a 12 performance run, beginning on December 21.

A spokesman said: “Audiences will be treated to the classic story of Princess Aurora, who is cursed by evil and later falls asleep for 100 years, after touching the spindle of an enchanted spinning wheel.

“With only a kiss as the cure, expect a tale of love conquering all, alongside some slapstick comedy, popular songs and a huge sprinkling of fairy dust.”

They added: “After thrilling crowds during 2017’s pantomime Robin Hood, Daniel Hanton is back by popular demand as Dame Victoria Sponge, while his partner in crime, comedian Ross Chenery, will play his son Muddles.

“Christian Manderfield will switch from last year’s role as the Sheriff of Nottingham to Sleeping Beauty’s father King Bumble and Laura Watling will provide some festive magic as Fairy Lights.

“Thom Bailey, who is also directing, will hang up Friar Tuck’s robes to play the villainous Carabosse, Rebecca Jillings once again takes on the title role, while Matthew Squance is debuting for Spark Live as Aurora’s one true love Prince William.”

This year’s performance has already garnered much interest from the public – desperate to enjoy another stellar performance.

Producer Ryan Holt said: “We ran an early bird offer for tickets and the uptake so far has been phenomenal, which is testament to how much people loved Robin Hood.

“Now we are putting our all into making sure that this year is even bigger and better.

“We have got nearly all the cast back, which I know many will have been hoping for, so expect special effects, outrageous routines and some extremely dodgy cooking thanks to Dame Victoria Sponge.”

Sleeping Beauty will run from December 21 to December 31.

A family ticket for two adults and two children is £42, adults are £12.50, children, £10.50 and concessions are £11.50.

Tickets for the performances are available from the public hall box office on 01502 770060 or at becclespublichall.org.uk